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A graphite pencil portrait of Violet Evergarden in side profile, with braided hair gathered at the back and loose strands framing her face, drawn on a white spiral-bound sketchbook page.
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ABOUT THE PIECE

Violet Evergarden

CreatedJuly 9, 2023
MediumGraphite on archival paper

Some words can be understood in an instant. Others may take an entire journey.

Violet once knew how to follow orders, endure battle, and survive — yet three simple words remained beyond her understanding: “I love you.” After the war, she begins writing letters for others, giving shape to emotions that people themselves struggle to express. Through their grief, longing, gratitude, and affection, she slowly discovers the language of her own heart. 

I wanted this portrait to hold that quieter side of Violet: someone looking forward while carrying memories that never completely leave her. There is sadness in her story, but not emptiness. Every letter brings her a little closer to understanding what was once only a sentence — and what it means to love, to lose, and still continue living.